As well as this, the Union Flag is flying at half-mast above the town hall today, and the Steve Prescott Bridge will be lit this evening – to show solidarity with the people of Manchester.

Paying his respects, Councillor Joe Pearson, the Mayor of St Helens, said: “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives as a result of this barbaric attack, and we pray that those seriously injured can make a full recovery.

“Being just down the road from Manchester, we want the people of a remarkable city to know that we stand with them in this moment of darkness.”